Editorial Policy

Editorial Policy

At TCM Simply, the goal is simple: to explain Traditional Chinese Medicine in a way that’s accurate, balanced, and easy to understand.

TCM is one of the world’s oldest medical traditions. It combines philosophy, history, culture, and clinical practice, which means many topics can’t be explained from a single perspective. Some ideas come directly from classical Chinese medical texts. Others are supported, challenged, or expanded upon by modern research.

Rather than promoting or dismissing TCM, this website aims to explain it clearly and provide readers with the context needed to understand where its ideas come from.

Our Editorial Principles

Every article published on TCM Simply is written with the following principles in mind:

  • Accuracy over sensationalism.
  • Education over persuasion.
  • Historical context where relevant.
  • Clear distinction between traditional TCM theory and modern scientific evidence.
  • Plain English that is accessible to readers with no prior knowledge of TCM.

Where evidence is uncertain or debated, articles aim to reflect that uncertainty rather than overstate conclusions.

How Articles Are Researched

Articles are developed using a combination of:

  • Classical Chinese medical texts
  • Modern academic and medical literature
  • Reputable universities and TCM institutions
  • Historical and cultural references
  • Observations of everyday Chinese cultural practices, where appropriate

Depending on the topic, not every article requires every type of source. A historical article may rely primarily on historical references, while an article about acupuncture may also discuss modern research.

A full list of the sources commonly used on this website can be found on the Sources & References page.

Traditional Theory vs. Modern Evidence

Traditional Chinese Medicine has its own terminology and conceptual framework, including ideas such as Qi, Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and organ systems that differ from modern anatomy and physiology.

When an article explains these concepts, it does so from within the TCM framework. This does not necessarily mean those concepts have been scientifically validated.

Where relevant, articles also discuss current scientific research to provide additional context. The goal is to help readers understand both perspectives without presenting one as a substitute for the other.

Use of AI

AI is used as a writing assistant during the production of articles.

It may help organize information, generate outlines, improve readability, or assist with drafting.

However:

  • AI is never treated as a source of factual information.
  • AI-generated citations are never used.
  • References are verified before publication.
  • Articles are reviewed and edited before they are published.

Accuracy remains the responsibility of the site’s editor, not the AI tools used during the writing process.

Updates and Corrections

Traditional Chinese Medicine is an active field of study, and new historical research and scientific evidence continue to emerge.

Articles may be updated periodically to:

  • improve clarity
  • correct factual errors
  • incorporate new research
  • update outdated information

If you believe an article contains an error, you’re welcome to get in touch through the Contact page. Genuine corrections are appreciated and help improve the quality of the site.

Advertising & Affiliate Relationships

TCM Simply may display advertising or participate in affiliate programs to support the ongoing operation of the website.

Advertising and affiliate partnerships do not influence editorial decisions.

Articles are written independently, and products, books, or services are not recommended solely because they generate revenue.

Our Commitment to Readers

Whether you’re completely new to Traditional Chinese Medicine or have been studying it for years, the goal of TCM Simply is the same:

To provide thoughtful, balanced, and well-researched explanations that help you better understand one of the world’s oldest medical traditions.

Curiosity is encouraged. Critical thinking is welcomed. And whenever possible, readers are encouraged to explore the original sources for themselves.